classroom ready

Educational

Architects of the 21st-Century Eco-System

Since 2019, +5 Technology has been Detroit’s leader in bridging the gap between classroom learning and the digital workforce. We don't just sell robots; we deliver a complete, cost-effective technology ecosystem designed for 4th–8th grade educators to reclaim control of their time classroom and inspire the next generation of "Knowledge Workers." Using AI.

Our Philosophy: The Brain, The Body, and The Eyes

We believe that technology is most powerful when it works in harmony. Our curriculum integrates three distinct pillars into one seamless educational experience:

The Brain (AI Prompt Engineering)

Using our proprietary TCREI Method, we teach students and teachers the language of the future. AI isn’t a shortcut; it’s the “brain” that powers critical thinking and precision command.

 

The Body (Advanced Robotics)

With the rising adoption of UAVs, the FAA and state authorities have been continuously working towards making these drone laws practical while preventing drone misuse and protecting citizens.

We keep a close eye on the updates and try to keep this information as recent as possible.

The Eyes (Autonomous Drones)

We provide a new perspective through aerial technology. Drones act as the “eyes” of the ecosystem, teaching spatial awareness, physics, and FAA-compliant safety. This concept introduces computer vision CV and how drones and other machines avoid obstacles.

Empowering the AI Educator-Pilot

We solve the two biggest hurdles in AI education: Teacher Time and Parent Fear.

Our professional development series is designed specifically for 4th–8th grade instructors. We show you how to use the TCREI Method (Task, Content, Reference, Evaluation, Iteration) to:

  • Recover Your Time

    Use AI to automate lesson plans, rubrics, and admin tasks.

  • Lead with Confidence

    Master the hardware with the support of our FAA-certified pilots.

  • Engage the Home

    Use our 30-minute parent training module to turn confusion into community support.

The +5 Advantage: Why Detroit Schools Choose Us

01

Local Roots

Born and bred in Detroit, serving the district since 2019.
02

Turnkey Solutions

From hardware procurement to staff certification, we handle the complexity so you can focus on teaching.
03

Cost-Effective Scalability

One integrated ecosystem that replaces multiple, disjointed tech kits.

Ready to Pilot the Eco-System in Your School?

Join our 4th–8th Grade Professional Development Series and see how the Brain, Body, and Eyes can transform your students into the architects of tomorrow. 

 

Educational Programs

7th-8th Grade
9th-12th Grade
Professional Development
Level 1

4th-6th Grade

Drones in the Classroom

To gain valuable skills necessary for positive flight control (the ability to fly a drone using a control station, I-Pad, or Computer), participants will begin with a trainer drone supplied by +5 Technology and its partners. As their skills improve, students will perform a series of controlled flight maneuvers to pass the aircraft “check-out” test for each level of progress. This course offers an introduction to science and technology.
Scientific thinking and understanding are essential for all people navigating the world, not just for scientists and other science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) professionals. Knowledge of science and the practice of scientific thinking are essential components of a fully functioning democracy. Science is also crucial for the future STEM workforce and the pursuit of living wage jobs. Yet, science education is not the national priority it needs to be, and states and local communities are not yet delivering high quality, rigorous learning experiences in equal measure to all students from elementary school through higher education.
a close up of a drone
Level 2

7th-8th Grade

Career Development

This curriculum and support technology will challenge students in problem-solving, teamwork, focus, coding, and computational thinking. Many programs offer robotics, automation, and programming. Still, only some programs or curriculum sets offer drone piloting, coding, autonomous robot operations, data collection, artificial intelligence, and problem-solving and computational thinking at the 4th-8th grade level.
Artificial Intelligence coupled with hands-on learning can help address a critical need. According to the Nations Report Card, students are falling behind in math and reading due to school closings during the pandemic. So, we encourage education leaders to modify this curriculum to help address their specific instructional needs. This technology can be a strong asset and training resource to help students better connect with the world of science and technology.
Level 3

9th-12th Grade

Knowledge Workers

According to the Corporate Finance Institute, knowledge workers are professionals who apply theoretical and analytical knowledge acquired through formal training to develop products and services. They are said to “think for a living.” They are differentiated from other workers by their ability to solve complex problems or to develop new products or services in their fields of expertise.
Examples of knowledge workers include ICT professionals, physicians, pharmacists, architects, engineers, scientists, design thinkers, public accountants, lawyers, editors, and academics.

Professional Development Series

+5 Technology with support from DroneBlocks, provides professional development opportunities for our educators and are well equipped to deliver your STEM curriculum.

After purchasing your Drone Kits you’re not alone we’re here to help you get started. Professional development for educators focusing on coding drones and AI robots for STEM education at the elementary through high school levels encompass both theoretical understanding and practical application.

Suggested Framework

  • Introduction to Coding Concepts

    • Basic concepts of programming such as loops, conditionals, variables, functions, etc.
    • Hands-on and simulator activities using block-based coding platform DroneBlocks to familiarize staff with coding fundamentals.

  • Understanding Drones and Robots

    • Overview of diverse types of drones and AI robots to be used for educational purposes.
    • Explanation of components and functionalities of drones and robots.
    • Safety protocols and guidelines for handling and operating drones and robots in educational settings.

  • Exploration of Coding Environments

    Introduction to coding environments specific to drones and AI robots, such as Tello SDK, DroneBlocks for Autonomous Drone Kit Level ll, or Python. You will learn practical exercises to navigate DroneBlocks and use the coding environments effectively.

  • Curriculum Integration

    Strategies for integrating coding drones and AI robots into existing STEM curricula across grade levels 4th – 12. Our curriculum is designed to meet Michigan Science Standards and several other partnering states. Our staff will help you design project-based learning activities that incorporate drones and robots to teach concepts in mathematics, science, engineering, and computer science.

  • Hands-on Coding Sessions

    • Guided coding sessions where educators learn to program drones and robots to perform specific tasks. Your team will be introduced to our training partners at DroneBlocks via online and in person professional development sessions.
    • Collaborative coding challenges to encourage teamwork and problem-solving skills.

  • Assessment and Evaluation

    • Methods for assessing student learning and progress when using drones and robots in the classroom. Using DroneBlocks classroom education platform, educators can track the progress of students thus creating a natural progression to the next level of coding.
    • Incorporating formative and summative assessments into drone and robot coding projects.

  • Ethical and Social Implications

    • Discussions on the ethical use of drones and AI robots, including privacy concerns and potential societal impacts. We suggest that you view the Nexflix documentary Coded Bias directed by Shalini Kantayya.
    • Guidance on teaching students about responsible coding practices and digital citizenship and online ethics.

  • Resources and Support

    • DroneBlocks provides access to online resources, tutorials, and communities for ongoing support and professional development to keep you at the forefront of information.
    • Establishing a network of educators for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

  • Practical Application and Project Development

    • Time for educators to work on developing their own coding drone or AI robot projects tailored to their specific classroom needs and objectives.
    • Peer feedback and mentoring to refine project ideas and implementation plans.

  • Reflection and Continuous Improvement

    Opportunities for educators to reflect on their learning experiences and identify areas for further growth. We help educators to stay updated on advancements in drone and AI technology and teaching methodologies through continued professional development opportunities.

By following this comprehensive framework, our educators can acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively integrate coding drones and AI robots into their STEM education practices at all grade levels.

A Whole New Way to Teach Kids to Code

5 Technology and DroneBlocks offers schools a comprehensive solution to teach kids to code, blending top-notch curriculum with state-of-the-art hardware for a transformative STEM experience that your students will not soon forget!

Professional development in science and technology for educators at the elementary through high school levels is crucial for several reasons.

  • Preparation for the Future Workforce

    In today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape, students need to be equipped with skills and knowledge in science and technology to thrive in future careers. Educators who stay updated with the latest developments in these fields can better prepare students for the workforce.

  • Fostering Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

    Science and technology education encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Teachers who receive professional development in these areas can incorporate hands-on activities, experiments, and projects into their teaching methods, allowing students to develop these essential skills.

  • Relevance to Real-World Applications

    Science and technology are integral parts of everyday life and have numerous real-world applications. Educators who receive professional development can connect classroom learning to real-world scenarios, helping students understand the relevance and practicality of what they are learning.

  • Meeting Curriculum Standards

    Most education systems have curriculum standards that include science and technology education. Professional development helps educators stay aligned with these standards and implement effective teaching strategies to meet them.

  • Equity and Access

    Access to quality science and technology education is essential for all students, regardless of their background or socio-economic status. Professional development ensures that educators have the knowledge and skills to provide equitable opportunities for all students to engage with science and technology.

  • Encouraging Interest and Engagement

    Engaging students in science and technology at an early age can foster a lifelong interest in these fields. Educators who receive professional development can explore innovative teaching methods and resources to make learning engaging and enjoyable for students.

  • Preparing Students for Higher Education

    Proficiency in science and technology is often required for admission to higher education programs and can pave the way for future academic and career success. Educators who receive professional development can better prepare students for the rigors of higher education in these fields.

  • Addressing Emerging Challenges

    Science and technology are constantly evolving, and new challenges and opportunities arise regularly. Professional development allows educators to stay updated with the latest trends, research, and advancements, enabling them to adapt their teaching practices to address emerging challenges effectively.

In summary, professional development in science and technology for educators is essential for promoting student success by preparing them for future careers, fostering critical thinking skills, connecting learning to real-world applications, ensuring equity and access, encouraging interest and engagement, meeting curriculum standards, preparing students for higher education, and addressing emerging challenges in the field.

There may be several reasons why there are few science and technology programs for elementary through high school that incorporate the use of drones and AI robots:

  • Cost and Resources

    Drones and AI robots can be expensive to purchase and maintain, making them inaccessible for many schools with limited budgets. Additionally, programs incorporating these technologies may require specialized training and resources for educators, further adding to the cost.

  • Safety Concerns

    Drones and AI robots can pose safety risks if not used properly, especially in educational settings with children. Schools may be hesitant to implement programs involving these technologies due to concerns about accidents or injuries.

  • Lack of Educator Training

    Many educators may not have the necessary training or expertise to effectively integrate drones and AI robots into their curriculum. Professional development opportunities focused on these technologies may be limited, making it challenging for educators to feel confident incorporating them into their teaching.

  • Curriculum Alignment

    Integrating drones and AI robots into existing curriculum standards can be challenging. Educators may struggle to find ways to incorporate these technologies in a way that aligns with learning objectives and educational standards.

  • Infrastructure Limitations

    Some schools may lack the infrastructure necessary to support programs involving drones and AI robots, such as adequate indoor and outdoor space for flying drones or navigating robots. Without proper infrastructure, implementing these programs may be impractical.

  • Perception of Complexity

    Educators and school administrators may perceive drones and AI robots as complex and intimidating technologies, leading them to prioritize more traditional teaching methods over innovative approaches involving these technologies.

  • Regulatory Constraints

    There may be regulatory constraints or restrictions on the use of drones in certain areas, such as near airports or populated areas, which could limit the feasibility of implementing drone programs in schools.

Despite these challenges, there is growing recognition of the importance of STEM education and the role that emerging technologies like drones and AI robots can play in engaging students and preparing them for future careers. As awareness increases and resources become more accessible, it is possible that we will see more science and technology programs for elementary through high school incorporating these technologies in the future.

Professional Development In Service Training

Elevating Education

Integrating Drones and Robotics into Your Curriculum

Welcome, educators! Today, we embark on a journey into the future of education, where innovation meets imagination. Our in service training  series makes it easy and inexpensive  to start your drones and robotics classroom learning for integration into your 4th to 12th grade curriculum.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, proficiency in robotics and drone technology is increasingly valuable. By incorporating these tools into the curriculum, educators equip students with the skills needed to thrive in fields like engineering, technology, and beyond.

Incorporating drones and robotics into your 4th to 12th grade curriculum isn’t just about embracing cutting-edge technology; it’s about transforming education to inspire, empower, and prepare the next generation of Knowledge Workers. Join us on this journey as we explore the endless possibilities of integrating drones and robotics into the classroom. Let’s elevate education together!

01

Teaching Tools

In-Classroom or self-taught, p5 Technology created a new way of making learning more fun, innovative and interactive for anyone.

Drones Teaching The Laws Of Physics

It is a well-known part of the science education program that students are taught about the laws of physics. Flying drones can provide very real examples of how physical laws work such as Newtons 3rd law for example ‘an object at rest will remain at rest unless acted upon by an outside force’.

To teach the first law of motion, our instructors can demonstrate to the students how, if no controls are pressed, the drone stays in place. The drone cannot hover or move unless the controls are used to power the motor and run the propellers – an outside force. In this drone focused way, students learn the laws of physics in a fun and interactive way.

02

Develop Motor Skills

We help develop depth perception by requiring the user to judge the distance in space that the drone is flying.

Drones Developing Motor Skills & Hand-Eye Coordination

Hand-eye coordination is a crucial skill that is taught in most young educational programs. From netball to tennis, sports were once thought to be the best way to improve it.

Although sports are still one way to teach this skill set, drones have proven to be another alternative. Drones require a lot of focus to use while navigating from one destination to another and drones can help develop depth perception by requiring the user to judge the distance in space that the drone is flying.

Giving students other options to build these necessary fine motor skills means that students are more likely to find success and a niche for themselves that they enjoy and may practice at home or with friends.

03

Teaching Coding

Learn first-hand code, using drones to engage students into writing programs that allow drones to conduct autonomous flights.

Drones Teaching Coding

Coding is one of the most popular jobs in the world right now that is seeing an excess of students navigating towards that career. Learning how to code can be less intimidating if students use drones for hands-on learning experiences.

In the same way, many schools have adopted robots to provide a frame that allows students to experience first-hand the effects of their code, many educators are using drones to engage students in writing programs that allow drones to conduct autonomous flights. This can be very useful to teach computational thinking and help younger students realize the great power of those skills.

04

Mathematical Teaching Tools

Learn first-hand code, using drones to engage students into writing programs that allow drones to conduct autonomous flights.

Math Teaching Tool

Mathematics can be a challenging subject to teach younger students; however, using engaging tools such as drones can give a real-world application to mathematical problems and equations, helping students not only realize the great power of this subject but also to see the actual result of their work.

Schools around the world are experimenting with drones – a school in Bangkok is having students learn how to make and read graphs, calculate distances, and acquire some basic trigonometry concepts by following the path of different drones.